Comparison between Variance and Edge Methods for Measuring Image Resolution Properties in Digital Mammography

Abstract

We studied the image resolution properties in digital mammography using the variance and edge response function methods. The associated measurements were made using a polymethylmethacrylate phantom of 0-40 mm thickness while maintaining the incident dose to the detector constant, as well as with and without using the phantom but by varying the level of exposure to the detector. The results obtained using the two methods were compared on the object plane of the mammography unit with compensation for the magnification and rejection of the scattered radiation. In this unit, the imaging process of resolution enhancement may be performed according to the phantom thickness, shape of test device, exposure level, and so on. The modulation transfer function values of the variance method were slightly higher than those of the edge method, approximately 6% at 2 cycles/mm and 8% at 4 cycles/mm without resolution enhancement processing. We concluded that the variance method is more suitable than the edge method for the constancy test or quality control because of its lower coefficient of variation.